Solo at last for pilot, 81 (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Solo at last for pilot, 81

AT the age of 81, Gordon Jones is flying high, after he became one of the oldest pilots to complete a first solo flight.

The determined octogenarian refused to let his age keep him grounded, as he took to the skies after a series of lessons at Old Sarum Flying Club.

Mr Jones, who is a retired army colonel, said he had given up hope of ever learning to fly, until he was given a surprise trial flight as an 80th birthday present.

"My ambition to pilot aircraft goes back to the second world war and my first flight as a passenger in a Whitley bomber while learning to parachute," he said.

"Later, after recovering from a wound, I thought I would change course and achieve my aim by volunteering to be a glider pilot.

"To my dismay, I failed the medical and ever since was under the impression that my ambition would never be fulfilled."

The introduction of the new national private pilot's licence, which allows older flyers to get off the ground, encouraged the grandfather-of-six to sign up for flying lessons, under the watchful eye of instructor Geoff Prout.

"It has taken me longer than other aspiring pilots to go solo," said Mr Jones, of Harnham. "But when I completed my first solo flight, I was absolutely delighted. It was a milestone in my life."

Mr Jones's achievement is a record at Old Sarum and the club can find no details of anyone older going solo for the first time.

"I think it is important to challenge yourself to do new things," said Mr Jones. "I had no qualms about my first solo flight - it's just like driving a car, just a bit more complicated. It was landing that I found most difficult but I got down safely."

Mr Jones now hopes to go on to complete his national private pilot's licence.

The rigorous test will involve flying to a number of airfields, in addition to a series of ground exams.

"It might take me a bit longer but I don't see why I can't do it at 81," he said. "Maybe it will even encourage other people to have a go.

"My wife and family have been very supportive - I think they are quite impressed.

"It might be unusual for someone my age to fly solo for the first time - but I've wanted to fly for 60 years, so it's a good job that you're never too old."